Breakfast and brunch

Best Local Breakfast and Coffee Spots in Tangier: Authentic Moroccan Dining Away from Tourist Crowds

Updated Thu, Aug 7, 2025

Discover authentic Moroccan breakfast spots and cozy cafes in Tangier, from traditional medina hideaways to modern brunch places loved by locals.

Best Local Breakfast and Coffee Spots in Tangier: Authentic Moroccan Dining Away from Tourist Crowds
1

Cafe Hafa

Marshan
sit down
moroccan tea house
Not required

Cafe Hafa sits perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar, offering sweeping views of Spain across the water. This legendary tea house has served mint tea and simple fare since 1921, attracting famous visitors like Paul Bowles and the Rolling Stones. The multi-level terrace provides intimate seating areas where guests can watch ships pass through one of the world's busiest waterways. Traditional Moroccan tiles and weathered wooden tables create an authentic atmosphere. The cafe operates from morning until late evening, making it perfect for sunset viewing. Local musicians sometimes perform traditional Andalusian music. Despite its fame, Cafe Hafa maintains its original character as a neighborhood gathering place where locals and tourists share the same magical setting.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Café Hafa offers spectacular views of the Strait of Gibraltar and Spanish coast from its clifftop location in Tangier's Medina. This historic café serves excellent traditional Moroccan mint tea and breakfast amid lush outdoor seating areas. The relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for unwinding with friends and capturing memorable photos.

Service is extremely slow with limited staff who mainly serve mint tea. Long waits for food and other drinks are common, with some visitors leaving after 45 minutes. The café only accepts cash, food quality is below average, and large tour groups can disrupt the peaceful atmosphere with loud guides and microphones.

Reviews summarized from between Apr 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Cafe Hafa offers spectacular sea views and sunset vistas from multiple terraces overlooking Tangier's shoreline. This historic cafe, one of the city's oldest, creates an authentic 1950s atmosphere with friendly locals and reasonable prices. The mint tea and overall experience make it worthwhile despite being busy.

Service is notably poor with inattentive waiters who struggle to take orders or deliver food promptly. Staff may attempt to overcharge customers and provide incorrect change. The cafe gets extremely crowded, especially during sunset hours, making it difficult to get proper attention from servers.

Reviews summarized from between Jun 2025 and Jun 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the spectacular panoramic views of the Mediterranean and Spain. The authentic mint tea served in traditional glasses receives consistent acclaim. Many appreciate the historic atmosphere and famous literary connections. The sunset experience is frequently described as unforgettable.

Some guests find the seating uncomfortable with basic plastic chairs and worn cushions. Service can be slow during peak tourist times. The limited food menu disappoints those expecting full meals. Occasional cleanliness issues with tables and facilities are mentioned.

2

Gran Cafe Central

Ville Nouvelle
sit down
Moroccan
Not required

Gran Cafe Central is one of Tangier's most beloved dining establishments, occupying a prime location that has served locals and visitors for decades. This traditional Moroccan cafe offers an authentic glimpse into local culture through its classic interior design and time-honored recipes. The menu features traditional Moroccan dishes alongside international options, making it accessible to diverse palates. The atmosphere captures old-world charm with tile work and comfortable seating arrangements. Staff members are known for their warm hospitality and knowledge of local customs. The cafe serves as a popular meeting spot for both business discussions and casual gatherings. Its central location makes it easily accessible from major hotels and tourist attractions. The establishment maintains reasonable prices while delivering quality food and service that keeps customers returning.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Lively terrace with local atmosphere and people-watching. Excellent drinks and desserts, especially the baked cheesecake with hot chocolate sauce. Professional, friendly staff provide good service. Prime location with beautiful interior and spacious seating. Great variety of cocktails and mint tea. Surprisingly good food quality that impresses even locals.

Serious food poisoning reported from fish tagine requiring trip cancellation. Persistent vendors and children approach tables asking for money while staff ignore the situation. Service can be slow with potential delays during busy periods. Smoke drifts inside from outdoor smoking area near open windows.

Reviews summarized from between Oct 2024 and Jun 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the authentic Moroccan atmosphere and friendly service. Many highlight the excellent tagines and fresh mint tea. The central location receives frequent mentions for convenience. Diners appreciate the reasonable prices and generous portions.

Some guests mention slow service during busy periods. A few reviews note that the interior could use updating. Occasional complaints about limited vegetarian options. Some visitors find the noise level high during peak hours.

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3

Cafe Baba

Medina
sit down
Moroccan
Optional

Cafe Baba is a beloved local institution in Tangier's medina, serving authentic Moroccan cuisine for over three decades. This family-run establishment occupies a traditional riad with carved wooden details and colorful tiles. The menu features classic tagines, couscous dishes, and fresh seafood caught daily from the Mediterranean. Local musicians often perform traditional Andalusian music during evening hours. The rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the Strait of Gibraltar and Spanish coastline. Portions are generous and ingredients come from local markets. The atmosphere blends old-world charm with genuine hospitality that makes visitors feel welcomed into a Moroccan home.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Historic cafe with incredible atmosphere preserved from the 1950s-60s. Family-owned for generations with kind staff. Famous visitors include Tony Bourdain and Rolling Stones. Reasonable prices at 20 dirhams for tea. Amazing views and authentic patina of age. House-made cookies and great coffee make it worth visiting for the history alone.

Some staff attempt to cheat tourists with incorrect change and act intentionally deceptive when confronted. Pricing concerns mentioned by visitors who worry about being overcharged. Disappointing service issues detract from this otherwise amazing historical location.

Reviews summarized from between Dec 2024 and Apr 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the authentic flavors and generous portions of traditional dishes. The lamb tagine and seafood couscous receive consistent acclaim. Many highlight the warm family atmosphere and excellent service from multiple generations working together. The rooftop views are frequently mentioned as spectacular.

Some guests report slow service during peak hours and occasional language barriers with staff. A few mention the interior can feel cramped when busy. Limited vegetarian options disappoint some visitors. The stairs to the rooftop terrace can be challenging for mobility-impaired guests.

4

Le Mirage Restaurant

Malabata
sit down
moroccan
Optional

Le Mirage Restaurant offers traditional Moroccan cuisine with panoramic views of the Strait of Gibraltar and Spanish coastline. The restaurant features an elegant dining room with large windows showcasing spectacular sunset views. Their menu highlights authentic tagines, fresh seafood, and regional specialties prepared with local ingredients. The dining experience combines traditional Moroccan hospitality with refined service. Located on elevated ground, the restaurant provides one of Tangier's most scenic dining experiences. The interior design blends modern comfort with Moroccan architectural elements. Live traditional music often accompanies dinner service on weekends. The wine list features both Moroccan and international selections.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Visitors love the elegant atmosphere and comfortable seating that creates a relaxing environment. The food consistently receives praise for being delicious and satisfying. Staff members like Mohamed Ali and Hatim provide excellent, attentive service that enhances the experience. The decor adds sophistication to the space, making it perfect for unwinding after sightseeing.

Service can be extremely slow, with some guests waiting over 30 minutes for food delivery. The pricing is considered unreasonable and too high for what's offered. Despite the charming setting, these issues with lengthy wait times and expensive prices significantly impact the overall dining experience.

Reviews summarized from between Dec 2024 and Jun 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Café Le Mirage delivers excellent service with attentive waiters who check in regularly. The food quality is great, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch. The atmosphere is chic and beautiful, giving off Beverly Hills vibes. Located in quiet suburbs away from city noise, it's ideal for a peaceful meal before exploring nearby Perdicaris.

The provided reviews did not contain any negative feedback about Café Le Mirage. Both reviewers expressed only positive experiences with the service, food, atmosphere, and location. Without critical comments in these reviews, no negative aspects can be identified from this particular set of feedback.

Reviews summarized from between Feb 2023 and Jun 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Guests consistently praise the breathtaking views and romantic atmosphere. The tagines and seafood dishes receive high marks for authentic flavors and quality preparation. Service is described as attentive and professional. Many reviewers highlight the sunset dining experience as unforgettable.

Some visitors mention higher prices compared to other local restaurants. Occasional complaints about slow service during peak hours. A few reviews note that the location requires taxi transportation as it's outside the city center. Limited vegetarian options disappoint some diners.

5

Cafe Tingis

Ville Nouvelle
sit down
moroccan
Optional

Cafe Tingis serves traditional Moroccan cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere that captures the essence of Tangier's cultural heritage. The restaurant offers an extensive menu featuring tagines, couscous, pastilla, and fresh seafood dishes prepared with authentic spices and local ingredients. The dining room showcases traditional Moroccan decor with colorful tiles, carved wood details, and comfortable seating arrangements. Located in a prime area of the city, the establishment attracts both locals and tourists seeking genuine Moroccan flavors. The kitchen focuses on time-honored recipes passed down through generations, ensuring each dish maintains its authentic character. Service tends to be attentive and knowledgeable about the menu offerings. The restaurant provides a cultural dining experience that goes beyond just food, offering insights into Moroccan hospitality and culinary traditions.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Iconic historic cafe that transports visitors back in time with old-fashioned charm. Great spot for authentic Moroccan mint tea and people-watching in the town center plaza. Locals gather here creating authentic atmosphere. Fair pricing compared to other tourist spots. Good food including crepes and coffee. Relaxing place to observe daily life.

Very touristy location with outdated systems and handwritten bills. Poor cleanliness standards with dirty glasses and crockery. Staff may add unrequested items like water bottles then charge extra without warning, making customers feel scammed. Some tourist trap elements detract from the authentic experience.

Reviews summarized from between Nov 2024 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Cafe Tingis offers prime people-watching in Petit Socco with excellent atmosphere and affordable prices. The historic institution provides authentic Tangier vibes with friendly service and good mint tea. Perfect spot to experience local culture and the bustling square's energy.

The menu is quite limited with food quality described as nothing special or amazing. While the location and atmosphere are the main draws, visitors shouldn't expect exceptional culinary experiences from this historic cafe.

Reviews summarized from between May 2024 and Jun 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Guests consistently praise the authentic Moroccan flavors and generous portion sizes. The traditional atmosphere and friendly service create a memorable dining experience. Many highlight the excellent tagines and fresh seafood preparations. The reasonable prices and central location make it accessible for most travelers.

Some visitors mention that service can be slow during peak hours. A few reviews note that the restaurant can get crowded and noisy. Occasional complaints about inconsistent food quality and limited vegetarian options. Some guests found the traditional seating arrangements uncomfortable for extended meals.

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6

Gran Cafe Paris

Medina
sit down
moroccan
Not required

Gran Cafe Paris is one of Tangier's most iconic dining establishments, occupying a prime corner location where locals and tourists converge throughout the day. This historic cafe serves as a cultural crossroads, offering traditional Moroccan dishes alongside international favorites in a bustling atmosphere that captures the essence of the city. The terrace provides excellent people-watching opportunities while diners enjoy mint tea, tagines, and fresh seafood. The interior maintains classic Moroccan decor with tiled floors and wooden furnishings. Service varies but the location and authentic atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for experiencing Tangier's vibrant street life and culinary traditions.

Summary of reviews from

Google

This authentic Tangier cafe offers old-world charm with friendly multilingual staff and affordable prices. Visitors enjoy the relaxed atmosphere perfect for people-watching, reading, and lingering over excellent coffee. The vintage 1950s decor creates a Parisian feel, attracting both locals and tourists to this timeless spot.

Indoor smoking creates an unpleasant atmosphere with constant cigarette odors that can ruin the dining experience. The establishment only accepts cash payments, which may inconvenience visitors expecting to use cards. These issues detract from an otherwise charming cafe experience.

Reviews summarized from between Sep 2023 and Mar 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Historic café with vintage charm featuring wood paneling and large windows for street views. Serves excellent coffee, fresh orange juice, and quality pastries. Friendly waiters create a relaxed atmosphere perfect for people-watching. Great location to experience old-school café culture with EuroCup football on TV.

Service can be slow during busy periods. The historic area has become somewhat touristy, diluting its authentic character. Limited menu options without groundbreaking dishes, though quality remains decent for comfort food and light meals.

Reviews summarized from between May 2024 and Dec 2024

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the authentic Moroccan atmosphere and prime location for people-watching. The mint tea receives consistent compliments, and many appreciate the variety of traditional dishes available. The historic charm and bustling energy create an memorable dining experience.

Some guests report slow service during peak hours and inconsistent food quality. A few mention that prices are higher than other local establishments. Occasional complaints about cleanliness and crowded conditions during busy periods.

7

Cafe Colon

Ville Nouvelle
sit down
moroccan
Not required

Cafe Colon is a cherished institution in Tangier's dining scene, drawing locals and visitors with its authentic Moroccan atmosphere and traditional recipes. This family-run establishment serves classic Moroccan dishes alongside continental options in a warm, welcoming setting. The restaurant features traditional decor with ornate tiles and comfortable seating areas. Guests praise the tagines, couscous, and fresh seafood preparations that showcase local ingredients and time-honored cooking methods. The staff provides attentive service while maintaining reasonable prices that appeal to budget-conscious travelers. The location offers easy access to Tangier's main attractions, making it a convenient stop for exploring the city's cultural sites.

Summary of reviews from

Google

This historic café captures old Tangier charm with its airy, relaxed atmosphere. Friendly servers recognize regulars and provide helpful service. The central location offers perfect people-watching under shaded awnings. Staff are upfront about pricing and willing to engage with customers, even letting some help make their own coffee.

Discriminatory treatment toward locals while favoring tourists creates uncomfortable situations. Overpriced tourist trap pricing with dirty cutlery and poor hygiene standards. Basic breakfast costs 60 dirhams with unexpected extra charges. Limited crowds suggest declining popularity, especially during off-season periods.

Reviews summarized from between Jun 2024 and Mar 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Diners consistently praise the authentic Moroccan flavors and generous portions. Many highlight the friendly service and reasonable prices. The traditional atmosphere creates an immersive cultural experience that tourists appreciate.

Some visitors mention occasional slow service during peak hours. A few reviews note that the decor feels dated. Limited vegetarian options disappoint some diners seeking plant-based meals.

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8

Restaurant Populaire Saveur de Poisson

Medina
sit down
seafood
Not required

Restaurant Populaire Saveur de Poisson is a local favorite in Tangier's medina, serving fresh seafood in a traditional Moroccan atmosphere. The restaurant offers an authentic dining experience with daily catches prepared using time-honored recipes and local spices. Diners enjoy grilled fish, seafood tagines, and fried platters while seated in a casual setting that attracts both locals and tourists. The establishment prides itself on affordable prices and generous portions, making it accessible to budget-conscious travelers seeking genuine Moroccan flavors. The restaurant's popularity stems from its commitment to quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods that showcase the coastal cuisine of northern Morocco.

Summary of reviews from

Google

This Tangier restaurant serves exceptional fresh seafood and fish with a generous set menu for 250 dirhams per person. The authentic northern Moroccan cuisine features shark, sea bass, and sole with spicy paste, three bread types, olives, and unique seasonal fruit juice. Professional multilingual staff create a proper culinary experience that's worth every penny.

The restaurant has poor lighting and simple interior decor that doesn't match the food quality. Long queues form after 1pm opening time, requiring patience to get seated. The venue only accepts cash payments and fills up quickly, making timing crucial for avoiding waits.

Reviews summarized from between Dec 2024 and May 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Guests praise the fresh fish quality and authentic Moroccan preparation. Many highlight the generous portions and excellent value for money. The friendly service and local atmosphere create a welcoming environment that makes diners feel at home.

Some visitors mention limited English-speaking staff and basic decor. Occasional complaints about service speed during busy periods. A few guests noted that the restaurant can get crowded and noisy during peak dining hours.

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